Spring-Locked Connector Sleeve for Fast Vibration-Resistant Mating

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing outdoor connectors for harsh environments, such as screw lock systems, are unreliable due to potential release under vibrations and require significant time and tools for installation, limiting connector density.

Innovation Solution

A connector design featuring a base element with a spring element and an outer sleeve that moves axially and rotates to engage the mating connector, providing a secure and fast connection without the need for additional tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a screw lock system is used to secure the connection, then the connection can be firmly locked, but the reliability is limited because the screw connection can be released under vibrations and requires significant time and tools for installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw lock mechanical system with a bayonet coupling mechanism combined with a spring-loaded locking system. The bayonet coupling provides rapid mechanical engagement through a simple rotational motion, while the spring element maintains continuous contact pressure to ensure reliable electrical connection without requiring threaded fasteners or torque tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element automatically maintains contact pressure between the connectors without requiring external adjustment or maintenance. The elastic deformation of the spring provides self-regulating force that compensates for manufacturing tolerances and wear, ensuring reliable connection without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a screw lock system is used to secure the connection, then the connection can be firmly locked, but specific tools are needed which causes additional costs and effort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of installation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw lock mechanical system with a bayonet coupling mechanism combined with a spring-loaded locking system. The bayonet coupling provides rapid mechanical engagement through a simple rotational motion, while the spring element maintains continuous contact pressure to ensure reliable electrical connection without requiring threaded fasteners or torque tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element automatically maintains contact pressure between the connectors without requiring external adjustment or maintenance. The elastic deformation of the spring provides self-regulating force that compensates for manufacturing tolerances and wear, ensuring reliable connection without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If a clamp solution with sliding sleeve is used to mechanically connect the connector, then the connection can be established fast without tools, but under axial load the connection can be unintentionally unlocked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection establishment speedVSAvoidconnection stability under load

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic spring-loaded locking mechanism where the spring element continuously adapts its force to maintain secure engagement. The spring's elastic properties allow it to dynamically respond to axial loads, maintaining contact pressure and preventing unintended unlocking while enabling rapid initial connection through bayonet coupling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element is pre-loaded to exert continuous counteracting force against potential unlocking forces. This preliminary elastic force is designed to counterbalance maximum expected axial loads, preventing the connector from disengaging under vibration or pull-out forces while allowing quick connection establishment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The connector achieves a reliable connection against axial forces and unintended release, while allowing for easy establishment and secure holding of the mating connector, even under weight loads.

Implementation Method 1

at least one spring element (5), which has a first end (51) being interconnected to the base element (3) and a second end (52) which is configured to engage with the mating connector (2)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250125559A1connector

Publication Date: 2025.04.17 HUBERSUHNER AG

AI summary

A connector including a base element extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end, configured to be interconnected to a cable, to a distal end, configured to mate with a mating connector. The connector includes an outer sleeve arranged circumferentially around the base element and moveable between an unlocked position and a locked position, or vice versa. A spring element includes a first end interconnected to the base element and a second end engageable with the mating connector. The outer sleeve axially moves from the unlocked position to the locked position, in which the outer sleeve acts on the spring element so that the second end of the spring element engages with the mating connector for holding the mating connector in a mated state against a pull-out force. The outer sleeve rotates around the longitudinal axis to be axially secured in the locked position.